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Friday, September 14, 2012

Azure Te

By Bill Davis & Don Wolf1952

A jazz gem that came along just as the new forms were emerging post World War II, including be bop and the nascent rhythm and blues that would lead to rock 'n roll. Wild Billy Davis was an innovative jazz pianist and organist who had done stints with the ensembles of Louis Jordan (pictured) and Duke Ellington among others, when he put this easy, supercool number together along with Don Wolf (who'd later contribute to the timeless early rock instrumental "Sleepwalk"). Jordan's band introduced the song.

Lyrics:

Gone and got the blues in ParisParis blues called Azure-TeHow can I be blue in Paris?It's easy 'cause you're far awayCan't lose these blues, this Azure-TeSide-walk tables filled with peopleAlways happy, always gayStill I'm all alone in ParisPraying you'll return somedayCan't lose this blues, this Azure-TeMontmartre, springtime, Eiffel TowerFunny taxis, the kids at playParis without you is lonesomeYearning more and more each dayCan't lose these blues, this Azure-TeIf you knew how much I need youYou'd come back to me to stayHaving you with me in ParisReally is the only wayYou lose these blues, this Azure-TeThese Paris blues, this Azure-Te

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A tribute to the finest genre of popular music in history, pop's direct link to the classical tradition, and one of our nation's most important contributions to world culture, the Great American Songbook. Each day (more or less), I spotlight a different popular standard. And yes, I'm straight. So is your grandfather. He loves this music, too--just ask him!